Free Okaloosa voluntary pre-k program begins Aug. 19

Published: Monday, August 5, 2013 at 10:30 AM.

CRESTVIEW — Cheri Pittman, the Farmer Street Childcare Network director, wants North Okaloosa County residents to know about the free voluntary pre-kindergarten program for 4- to 5-year-olds.

Particularly since the start date is just around the corner.

VPK prepares kids for kindergarten with pre-reading, pre-math, language and social skills. The program, which Florida established in 2005 after state voters approved it in 2002, can give children from any economic situation an educational advantage, Pittman said.

"Without this program, some children would enter kindergarten without having the opportunity to develop their social, emotional and education skills," she said in email.

VPK providers kick off this year’s program Aug. 19, the same day that Okaloosa County Schools start. Crestview has 10 VPK providers; Holt and Baker each have one, according to the Early Learning Coalition of Okaloosa and Walton Counties website.

CRESTVIEW — Cheri Pittman, the Farmer Street Childcare Network director, wants North Okaloosa County residents to know about the free voluntary pre-kindergarten program for 4- to 5-year-olds.

Particularly since the start date is just around the corner.

VPK prepares kids for kindergarten with pre-reading, pre-math, language and social skills. The program, which Florida established in 2005 after state voters approved it in 2002, can give children from any economic situation an educational advantage, Pittman said.

"Without this program, some children would enter kindergarten without having the opportunity to develop their social, emotional and education skills," she said in email.

VPK providers kick off this year’s program Aug. 19, the same day that Okaloosa County Schools start. Crestview has 10 VPK providers; Holt and Baker each have one, according to the Early Learning Coalition of Okaloosa and Walton Counties website.